DALLAS - ARA president Richard Paquette and RIA president Tony Beringer were optimistic after leaders of the two groups met here recently to explore possible cooperation on future trade shows.

Described by both presidents as a preliminary meeting to discuss possible combinations and structures for joint co-operation, the leaders examined existing cooperative relationships ARA has with the Rental Association of Canada and the Texas Rental Association. They also discussed ARA's current state association program and RIA's activities, requirements and plans.

"We learned more about the ways we go about managing our respective associations and trade shows," Paquette told RER. "A solid understanding of each other's needs and requirements will allow each side to better formulate proposals for working relationships, joint ventures and/or mutually beneficial programs. Both groups are going back home to study the possibilities, gather data and solidify ideas that each could present to the other side."

No date for future meetings was set, but Paquette said they expect to meet before the end of the year.

Although the two associations have come close to agreements more than once in recent years, Paquette and Beringer expressed cautious optimism that the two associations could achieve agreements on "realistic goals."